Parkinson’s Disease

HealthHub Clinics in Dubai offers specialized Parkinson’s disease treatment in Dubai, providing compassionate, multidisciplinary care for Parkinson’s and other movement disorders. At our Advance Neurology clinic in Dubai, expert neurologists deliver personalized treatment plans to help you manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Whether you have just noticed a slight tremor or have long been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, our team is here to support you at every stage with cutting-edge care and empathy.

Understanding Movement Disorders

Movement disorders are neurological conditions that affect the body’s ability to move, resulting in either excessive involuntary movements or reduced/slowed movements. You might experience tremors (shaking), muscle stiffness, involuntary jerks, or loss of coordination, depending on the specific disorder. There are several types of movement disorders. Some of the most common include:

Essential Tremor: A neurological condition causing involuntary shaking, usually in the hands, during activities like holding a glass or writing. It can worsen with stress and is often mistaken for Parkinson’s disease.
Dystonia:Involuntary muscle contractions leading to twisting movements or abnormal postures, affecting either one part of the body or multiple areas. Treatments include medications and therapy.
Chorea: Irregular, dance-like movements of the face, limbs, or trunk, often linked to Huntington’s disease but also appearing in other conditions.
Ataxia: A disorder affecting coordination and balance due to cerebellum damage, leading to clumsy movements and a lurching gait. Causes include genetic conditions and stroke.
Myoclonus: Quick, sudden muscle jerks, which can be frequent and disruptive. Causes vary, and treatments focus on managing the severity of jerks.
Tics (Tourette Syndrome): Sudden, repetitive movements or vocal sounds that are difficult to control, often beginning in childhood. Treatment may involve behavioral techniques and medication for severe cases.

Parkinson’s Disease is one of the most prevalent movement disorders worldwide. In fact, an estimated 7 to 10 million people around the globe are living with Parkinson’s disease. It primarily affects people over 60 years old, though younger adults can also develop early-onset Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s disease is discussed in detail below, as it is a leading focus of our clinic’s expertise.

Parkinson’s Disease: Symptoms and Causes

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that chiefly impacts movement. It happens when certain brain cells (neurons) in the basal ganglia – the area controlling movement – deteriorate or die. These neurons normally produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter vital for smooth, controlled muscle activity. As dopamine levels drop due to cell loss, the brain’s ability to regulate movement decreases. This leads to the classic motor symptoms of Parkinson’s:

Tremors: Typically a resting tremor, such as a pill-rolling tremor of the hands, which means shaking that is most noticeable when your limb is at rest. Tremors often start on one side (like one hand) and may spread to the other side over time.
Bradykinesia (Slowness of movement): You may find it takes longer to perform simple movements. Walking may become slow or shuffling, and activities like buttoning a shirt are more difficult due to reduced dexterity.
Rigidity: Stiffness in the limbs or neck, causing a feeling of muscle tension and resistance to movement. This can lead to muscle aches and a stooped posture.
Postural Instability: Balance problems and a tendency to stoop or have difficulty with coordination, which can increase the risk of falls.

People with Parkinson’s may also experience non-motor symptoms like a reduced sense of smell, constipation, sleep disturbances, mood changes, and cognitive issues. Early warning signs can include chronic constipation, loss of smell, or REM sleep behavior disorder. Motor signs start subtly, like a slight tremor or smaller handwriting.

Parkinson’s disease is idiopathic for most, meaning its cause is unknown. It’s often a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Some cases are hereditary, while others are linked to toxins or aging. The main issue is dopamine-producing cell loss, leading to gradual symptom progression.

Diagnosis and Evaluation of Movement Disorders

Accurate and early diagnosis of movement disorders is crucial. At HealthHub, our neurologists perform thorough evaluations to diagnose Parkinson’s disease. This involves a detailed medical history, symptom review, and neurological examination, focusing on muscle tone, reflexes, coordination, and gait.

To rule out other conditions, we may order blood tests and MRI scans, and in some cases, a Dopamine Transporter (DaT) scan to confirm reduced dopamine activity, indicative of Parkinson’s. We also differentiate between tremors: essential tremors occur during movement, while Parkinsonian tremors occur at rest.

Follow-up appointments are valuable to observe the evolution of symptoms and confirm the diagnosis. We emphasize clear communication, ensuring you understand your condition and treatment options. For those diagnosed elsewhere, we offer second opinions and comprehensive reviews.

Comprehensive Treatment and Multidisciplinary Care

At HealthHub, we believe in a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to treating Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s, but with the right therapies, patients can lead active, fulfilling lives for many years. Our goal is to manage your symptoms, slow the progression where possible, and maximize your quality of life. Treatment plans are tailored to each person’s needs and often include a combination of:

Medication Management: Medications are often the first line of treatment for Parkinson’s. Levodopa, usually given as carbidopa-levodopa, replenishes dopamine and improves symptoms like slowness, stiffness, and tremor. Our neurologists adjust medications over time to find the optimal regimen. For conditions like dystonia or essential tremor, different medications might be used. We also educate you on proper medication use and expectations.
Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy is crucial for movement disorder treatment. It includes targeted exercises for balance, strength, and mobility. These exercises help maintain mobility and slow symptom progression in Parkinson’s. Our physical therapists train you in gait, flexibility, strength, and the use of assistive devices if needed.
Speech Therapy: Parkinson’s can affect speech and swallowing. Our speech-language pathologists improve voice volume, clarity, and swallowing through exercises and techniques. This helps boost confidence and improve communication.
Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy helps maintain independence in daily activities. Our therapists teach adaptive techniques and tools for tasks like dressing, writing, and using utensils.
Advanced Treatments: We stay updated on advanced treatments. For severe Parkinson’s, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) can reduce symptoms. DBS is for advanced cases and can greatly improve quality of life. We coordinate with top neurosurgical teams for procedures like DBS, ensuring continuity of care. Other treatments, like botulinum toxin injections for dystonia or tremor, are also available.

Throughout treatment, compassionate support is a hallmark of HealthHub’s approach. We understand that movement disorders affect not just your body, but also your emotional well-being. Our team provides guidance on lifestyle adjustments, nutrition, and exercise programs specific to Parkinson’s and related disorders. We also facilitate support groups and educational sessions so you can connect with others and learn practical tips for living well with your condition. Managing a chronic disorder is a journey, and we walk that journey with you every step of the way.

Why Choose HealthHub Clinics?

Extensive Experience
Advanced Facilities
Affordable premium services
Trusted Al-Futtaim brand

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the early signs of Parkinson’s disease?

Early signs of Parkinson’s can be subtle. Common initial symptoms include a slight tremor in one hand (often while at rest), cramped or smaller handwriting (called micrographia), and limb stiffness that might make arm swing less noticeable on one side. Non-motor symptoms like loss of smell, chronic constipation, or acting out dreams during sleep can precede motor symptoms by years. If you notice combinations of these issues – for example, a resting tremor along with difficulty in buttoning your shirt or an unexplained change in gait – it’s wise to consult a neurologist for an evaluation.

How do I get started with treatment at HealthHub’s neurology clinic in Dubai?

Contact HealthHub Clinics by phone or through our website to book an appointment with a neurologist. Bring any past medical records or test results. Our team will evaluate your condition and recommend a care plan. This plan may include services like medication management and sessions with a physiotherapist and speech therapist. We aim to make your treatment journey smooth and convenient. Reach out to take the first step toward better mobility and health.